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3D-printed-anatomy developers aim to revolutionize medical education

July 22, 2014

Part of the 3D Printed Anatomy Series (credit: Monash University)

A kit of 3D-printed anatomical body parts could revolutionize medical education and training, according to its developers at Monash University.

Professor Paul McMenamin, Director of the University’s Centre for Human Anatomy Education, said the simple and cost-effective anatomical kit would dramatically improve trainee doctors’ and other health professionals’ knowledge and could even contribute to the development of new surgical treatments.

“Many medical schools report either a shortage of cadavers, or find their handling and storage too expensive as a result of strict regulations governing where cadavers can be dissected,” he said.

“Without the ability to look inside the body and see the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels, it’s incredibly hard for students to understand human anatomy. We believe our version, which looks just like the real thing, will make a huge difference.”

The 3D Printed Anatomy Series kit, to go on sale later this year, could have particular impact in developing countries where cadavers aren’t readily available, or are prohibited for cultural or religious reasons.

After scanning real anatomical specimens with either a CT or surface laser scanner, the body parts are 3D printed either in a plaster-like powder or in plastic, resulting in high resolution, accurate color reproductions.

Further details have been published online in the journal Anatomical Sciences Education.

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Comments (6)

Unfortunately, it seems to me that likely way, way too many cadavers might be available in these times in some “developing countries” … where everything “medical” seems to be far too expensive for the local economies.

I was actually thinking that in too many places, physicians and interns and medics are likely getting all too much opportunity to practice in real Emergency Rooms or field hospital tents, etc. There is no question about the value of reusable realistic medical mannequins, however, for medical training and this 3-D technology may become inexpensive enough to distribute widely for that purpose.

““Without the ability to look inside the body and see the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels, it’s incredibly hard for students to understand human anatomy. We believe our version, which looks just like the real thing, will make a huge difference.”

Yeah, sure, but now where will they get used to the smell of formaldehyde?

It is these small changes/improvements that can occur in countless areas due to having this 3D printing technology, creating gains and efficiencies in other areas that all help with the prime directive.